No matter where you look, the custom motorcycle world is ripe with scramblers and trackers. But as EVs take over, the compass is slowly shifting toward sci-fi-inspired builds–something Vietnam’s Bandit9 has embraced with open arms. The shop is home to scintillating projects like the Triumph-powered Supermarine, and for 2023, it has unlocked a new level with its new uni-bodied sci-fi motorcycle, dubbed EVE Odyssey. Let’s dive in.
The Bandit9 EVE Odyssey Is Carved Out Of Aluminum
Like most Bandit9 projects, the EVE Odyssey has extreme use of aluminum. And not just any aluminum, but aerospace-grade aluminum. The subframe, seat, gas tank, steering setup, and complete headlight assembly are all carved from the said material, that too, in a monocoque construction. All this creates a unique unibody design that is uber-minimalistic, but not boring by any measure.
Diving deeper, the EVE also has bespoke ergonomics. You sit on a custom leather saddle and rest your hands on clip-on handlebars, both incorporated into the single-piece body. Couple this with the rear-set footrests, and you should feel pretty sports bike-like aboard the Odyssey. Oh, and the handlebar, footrests, grips, and switches are all built out of aluminum too. Once aboard, you’ll also appreciate the LCD readout and all-LED lights.
The Bandit9 EVE Odyssey Has Idiosyncratic Underpinnings
Under the skin, Bandit9 has suspended the Odyssey on telescopic forks and monoshock, built exclusively for this project. Topping this is a single-sided swingarm and six-spoke alloy wheels, both built from the same space-grade aluminum. There’s no rear disc, however, and you only have a single front disc to slow you down.
But this won’t be a problem, considering the Odyssey’s 125cc powerhouse. Yes, you read that right, this mesmerizing build is powered by a puny 125cc, single-cylinder mill, sourced from Honda. It should be good enough for 10 horsepower, a top speed of 65mph, and a cracking efficiency of over 150 miles per gallon, judging from Honda’s miniMoto lineup.
The Bandit9 EVE Odyssey Is Priced At $19,500
Exquisite creations like this don’t come cheap, and the EVE Odyssey is no exception. Bandit9 has priced it at $19,500, nearly six times more than a $3,449 Honda Grom 125. However, if you’re convinced to put pre-book it now, you’ll get a $5,000 discount (net price will be $15,500). Once booked, all you need to do is wait until the end of 2023 to get your Odyssey delivered. And in case you want something more environment-friendly, Bandit9 also plans to introduce an all-electric EVE Odyssey in the coming months. There’s no fixed date for that, though.